Tag: Science fiction

Book highlight: ‘To Thrive or To Fall’ by Trinity Johnson

‘To Thrive or To Fall’ is a post apocalyptic novel by Trinity Johnson. Photo: Barnes & Noble

Post apocalyptic novels are usually set in the future after a major event changed the world people inhabited. They often explore possible responses to the destruction of the world or society and how they are trying to survive in their new surroundings. That is what makes them so fascinating and one of my favorite genres of science fiction. Today I would like to highlight one such novel: “To Thrive or To Fall” by Trinity Johnson. If you enjoy reading books set in a post-apocalyptic setting mixed with fantasy, science-fiction, action, and romance, then this is a story that you will surely enjoy. It is available on Barnes & Noble.

Trinity Johnson is a passionate author who enjoys writing purposeful books of different genres which are meant to teach and entertain. She is creating BagHead Scoop which is an ever-growing company founded with the belief of increasing the level of happiness through books and animation. There is also BookUp+Chill which is a YouTube channel that showcases book trailers to bring the story and characters to life. Between entertainment and teaching lessons, there is something for everyone. In her post apocalyptic novel “To Thrive or To Fall,” the result of radiation from nuclear war and the impact of a meteorite created a new world and has divided humanity into four kingdoms: Acropolis, Bunker 50, Oasis State, and Xanadu City. (Trinity Johnson, 2023)

“To Thrive or To Fall” – More than 100 years ago, World War III broke out amongst all countries. Nuclear war ravaged the planet and once it finally ended, the atmosphere was left with its radiation. To make matters worse, a meteorite struck the Earth and changed the world as our ancestors knew it. This event was called, ‘The Descent.’

However, something miraculous happened. When the radiation from the bio-weapons used in World War III mixed with the impact of the meteorite, a major chemical reaction spread everywhere, evolving humanity into something more. Now people are divided into four kingdoms: Acropolis which resides in the mountains, Bunker 50 which is made up of bunkers, Oasis State that dwells near the lakes, and Xanadu City which is underground.

Easy-going Fleur Solace from Xanadu and stern Atlas Aslan from Acropolis were close friends as children. But after a terrible misunderstanding, they were forced apart by their nations. Ten years later, the two young adults have become the ambassadors of their kingdoms and must work together to unify their people.

However, with tensions from the past, new personalities, potential traitors, and seemingly orchestrated attacks, will they be able to win against each other and the dangerous political arena?

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‘To Thrive or To Fall’ book trailer
Meet the characters of ‘To Thrive or To Fall.’

Upcoming new movie release: First Time Caller

The podcast turned sci-fi thriller comes to Video On Demand on January 12, 2024. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Buffalo 8 is thrilled to open their 2024 line up with the North American VOD release of First Time Caller, the feature adaptation of the fan-favorite podcast “The Earth Moves” from directors J.D. Brynn and Abe Goldfarb. Based on Gideon Media’s acclaimed podcast, First Time Caller is a darkly hilarious look at success, power, loneliness, and the apocalypse. First Time Caller debuts on Cable and Digital VOD on January 12, 2024, including Prime Video, Vudu, Vubiquity, Cox, and Comcast. (Justin Cook PR, 2023)

First Time Caller – Brent Ziff is an internet shock-jock at the top of his game. Fans and followers tune in from coast to coast to be insulted and enlightened by their favorite on-air provocateur. But on one very unusual night, Brent’s world is rocked by a long-time listener who calls in with a grave message.

75 Minutes/USA

Abe Goldfarb and Brian Silliman reprise their roles from “The Earth Moves” as Brent and Leo, alongside vocal performances from Greg Proops, Ophira Eisenberg, and Ashlie Atkinson. Mac Rogers, who wrote the original podcast, adapted the script. Patrick Terry produced for Cinedata. Gerry Ohrstrom, Thomas Campbell Jackson and Lawrence Starr are executive producers, alongside Buffalo 8’s Matthew Helderman and Luke Taylor, Nikki Stier Justice and Grady Craig.

First Time Caller world premiered at the Seattle Film Festival and earned the Grand Jury Prize, along with awards for Best Actor (Goldfarb) and Best Director (Goldfarb and Brynn). The film went on to win Best Feature Film at the Brooklyn SciFi Film Festival and was the headliner as the Opening Night Feature at the Bowery Film Festival. On the festival circuit, Film Threat hailed First Time Caller as “extremely inventive, quite a ride!”

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New book release: ‘Don’t Say Cis’ by Hunter Cahoon and Cole Deyo

‘Don’t Say Cis’ is the new science fiction novel by Hunter Cahoon and Cole Deyo. Photo: Amazon

The theme for today is philosophy and going with that, some people would say that there is a rise in hedonistic nihilism in our current society. Hedonistic nihilism is the belief that if life is inherently meaningless, and since you only live once, then you might as well enjoy your life to the maximum. If you are interested in deep philosophical discussions and enjoy authors like Franz Kafka, Friedrich Nietzsche, George Orwell, H.G Wells, and others, then you might want to check out today’s new book release. “Don’t Say Cis” by Hunter Z Cahoon and Cole A Deyo is a dystopian novel focused on hedonistic nihilism and how it affects the life of one family and the world around them. It is sure to leave an impression on readers and hopefully start a meaningful dialogue on what motivates humankind – it is available on Amazon.

Hunter Cahoon is a current masters student in clinical mental health. His narratives focus on the psychological effects of particular personal philosophies. Mainly, hedonism and nihilism are often critiqued harshly in his works. Cahoon’s inspirations are none other then Carl Jung, Fyodor Dostoyevsky, Fredrich Nietzsche, and Franz Kafka. Fans of these authors and psychologists will likely enjoy many elements found in Cahoon’s writings, which blend creativity with deep psychological and philosophical discussion. In the new book “Don’t Say Cis, current master student in clinical mental health, Hunter Cahoon and current bachelor student, Cole Deyo attack the current trend of hedonic nihilism occurring in America while showing the negative effects of banning free speech and intellectual diversity which could help stop the spread of such a philosophy. (Hunter Cahoon, 2023)

“Don’t Say Cis” – What happens when society continues its trend of pursuing the lowest quality pleasures to fill its hedonistic desires? The year is 2059, and a small family finds themselves in this new world full of depression and despair. The group finds the lack of free speech and narrow mindedness of the citizens turn deadly for them. At every turn there is nihilism, purposelessness, false virtues, ignorance of the highest possible good, suicide, impulsively violent anger, and many injustices.

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New movie release: 5000 Space Aliens

5000 Space Aliens will be available November 21, 2023. Photo: Google

Director Scott Bateman and Producer Lucas A. Ferrara are excited to share the trailer for their new genre-bending animation, 5000 Space Aliens, which is coming to digital download worldwide on November 21, 2023. Get ready to meet a new space alien every second in this bonkers and groundbreaking one-of-a-kind animated film. (October Coast, 2023)

Imagine meeting a space alien. Now imagine meeting one space alien every second. This is what happens in Scott Bateman’s groundbreaking animated film 5000 Space Aliens. Scott Bateman has turned found footage, vintage photo studio pictures from Venezuela and Romania, scraps from a 100-year-old psychology textbook, and more into 5000 one-second shots of animated characters.

Instead of a typical narrative, 5000 Space Aliens is more like a ride: You just let the hypnotic rhythm of images wash over you. This one-of-a-kind animated extravaganza was made by just one animator, director Scott Bateman. Bateman also created the electronic-tinged soundtrack.

5000 Space Aliens was Medusa Underground Film Festival’s ‘Best Picture’ and has received multiple ‘official selections’ at a raft of international festivals. Pulled from the mind of Director Scott Bateman whose previous work includes The Bateman Lectures on Depression and You Your Brain & You. Not your average filmmaker, Bateman took the incredible leap to fund his projects via game shows, winning $100,000 (and a cruise) on Who Wants To Be A Millionaire, as well as becoming a one-day Jeopardy! champion.

On making the film, Scott Bateman says, “Storytelling is everywhere these days, it’s ridiculous. But not everything has to tell a story. I believe movies can do other things as well, and still be fun and entertaining to watch. So with 5000 Space Aliens, I set out to create an entertaining, non-narrative film.

5000 Space Aliens has a visual rhythm of one shot per second, and it is an absolutely hypnotizing movie-going experience. It’s like a ride: you don’t have to think, you just let it wash over you. The music acts as a thread through the whole film, your friend who’s on the ride with you.

I’m very happy that it all worked. 5000 Space Aliens is a very fun movie to watch with a group of friends at home or in a theater. There are so many ‘What did I just see?’ moments, and it’s highly re-watchable.

But also, I wanted to make a film but had no money at the time. So I was looking for a way I could make a movie all by myself. This was a fun challenge, as it’s been one so rarely. I did all this animation, created all this music, did the editing, all of it. I had a blast making this film, and I’m so happy it’s a blast so audiences can experience this groundbreaking, one-of-a-kind film. There’s never been another film like this.”

“…If you’re looking for something quirky, off-beat, and extremely entertaining, check out this unique film. And while you’re at it, you’d best fasten your seatbelts, as you’ll likely encounter some turbulence as this mesmerizing movie takes you on a fast-paced, high-speed joyride. An engaging alternate reality awaits.” – Lucas A. Ferrara, Producer

Book of the week: ‘Toka-Ace: #1 Tabula Rasa’ by Tahir Kashif

‘Toka-Ace: #1 Tabula Rasa’ is the first in the Toka-Ace series by Tahir Kashif. Photo: Amazon

Science fiction novels are some of my favorite books because they stretch the imagination and feature superheroes, warriors, battles, and enough action to keep you hooked until the end. This week’s book of the week is “Toka-Ace: #1 Tabula Rasa” by Tahir Kashif. The story centers around Unit Nine, a deadly living weapon whose new assignment will test him in ways he never expected. It is meant for young readers aged 13-18 but if you enjoy exciting science fiction action thrillers, put this one on your ‘to read’ list. The language is down to earth and descriptive and the action flows easily through the pages. Check it out for yourself, it is available through the author’s website in e-book and paperback edition. Chapter One is narrated in the YouTube video below.

Tahir Kashif was born and raised in Milwaukee Wisconsin. Toka-Ace is his first book series, which includes “Toka-Ace: #1 Tabula Rasa” and “Toka-Ace: #2 Burial.” He has a YouTube channel by the name of The Anti-Pendulum. His videos are sometimes nerdy, and sometimes thought provoking but always interesting. (Tahir Kashif, 2023)

“Toka-Ace: #1 Tabula Rasa” – Assassinations, stealth, and infiltration. Unit Nine is a living weapon and the best at what he does. There is nobody deadlier or more dangerous. When he is assigned to recover a missing bioweapon and hundreds of millions in stolen money, he never expects the mystery to put him face to face with his past mistakes or force him to make a pivotal choice. Even the deadliest of warriors can be caught off guard.

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Upcoming book release: ‘The Girl from Wudang’ by PJ Caldas

PJ Calas’ new novel ‘The Girl from Wudang’ will be released October 17, 2023. Photo: Amazon

The author of multiple best-selling novels in Brazil, PJ Caldas, a.k.a PJ Pereira was picked by the Dictionary of Brazilian Literature as one of the most important writers of the twenty-first century. There, he published four books inspired by the mythology carried to the country by the African diaspora, and reached the top five best-selling titles multiple times. PJ is also a martial artist with 40 years of experience in combat sports, including kempo, karate, tai chi, and Brazilian jiu jitsu. In 2023 he was named Jury President of the Artificial Intelligence Awards at the Art Director’s Club, and curated a Global immersive exhibit of designers collaborating with AI, called ADC101+1, as a way to explore the use of this emerging technology as a creative tool. His new book “The Girl from Wudang: A Novel About Artificial Intelligence, Martial Arts and Immortality” is a story about immortality, martial arts, and AI that will make you change the way you look at life, science, and the crazy times we are living in. It will be released Tuesday, October 17, 2023. (Meryl Moss Media Group, 2023)

“The Girl from Wudang” – Tigress is immortal. This is her story. Yinyin, called Tigress, was raised in the sacred mountains of Wudang, where her life was about Tai Chi, the Dao, and trying to balance her yang with yin. She had never heard of Artificial Intelligence or neuroscience. But then her overpowering yang sets her on a course to the Bay Area to become a professional fighter.

For as long as she could remember, Yinyin had been told she was poised to become part of something big, but what “big” turned out to be was beyond her imagining: a scientific experiment that would allow her to connect her brain to a “Brainternet” and become unbeatable. Bonus: the suicidal headaches that had plagued her all her life would cease.

But nothing comes without a price, and this connection would give others access to family secrets Yinyin has sworn to protect. Secrets that, at large and in the wrong hands, could be a very dangerous.

Fans of the legendary cyberpunk novels and gritty sci-fi thrillers of William Gibson and Stieg Larsson will be captivated by this new techno-thriller–a fast-paced blend of action, neuroscience, spirituality, and martial arts.

“A superlative new novel by one of Brazil’s most innovative writers. A mesmerizing clash between Eastern and Western beliefs about mind and body.” —Bruce Dean Willis, literature professor, University of Tulsa

“An interdisciplinary brewing of ideas and imagination, packed with futuristic brain science tech, martial arts action, and Asian culture.” — Professor Paul Li, author and faculty in cognitive science, UC Berkeley

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New book release: ‘Chronicles of a Lost Tomorrow’ by Wayker Arenas

‘Chronicles of a Lost Tomorrow: A True Account of a Journey Through Time’ is the new time travel science fiction novel by Wayker Arenas. Photo: Amazon

Besides thrillers, science fiction novels are my go-to for escapist novels. They are entertaining because they stretch the imagination and when you add time travel and a dystopian setting, it becomes an epic. Such is the case in today’s new book release by Wayker Arenas, “Chronicles of a Lost Tomorrow: A True Account of a Journey Through Time.” It is the story of a man from the present timeline who gets an unexpected journal of a time traveler that details his and his wife’s tragic life spent locked in a totalitarian cult-controlled timeline. This well written odyssey of a time traveler reads like a modern work of literature and is sure to please fans of the genre. Get your copy today and find out what happens to this weary traveler – it is available on Amazon.

Wayker Arenas is an author, engineer, and devoted father of two. He finds solace in reading, relishes writing, and engaging in discussions about ideas. His life is a harmonious blend of technical expertise and literary passion, shaping his unique perspective on the world. In his new book “Chronicles of a Lost Tomorrow: A True Account of a Journey Through Time,” readers are immersed in an exciting and thought-provoking story that spans the present and a dystopian future. (Amazon, 2023)

“Chronicles of a Lost Tomorrow: A True Account of a Journey Through Time” – The book begins with the time traveler journal, and as you read through the chapters, you get immersed in the time traveler couple’s fight for existence in his time machine as their only means of escape. The time traveler unravels the complexities of this repressive dictatorship with each entry, learning the cult’s dark secrets and experiencing the deadly effects of their control. It immerses readers in extensive journal entries, providing a first-hand account of the time traveler An’s voyage through time. He faces various hurdles and roadblocks along the way that put his perseverance and resourcefulness to the test, pushing him to confront his own fears and limits.

The novel addresses themes of history, power, capabilities, and the human propensity for destruction through dangerous ideologies via the time-traveler’s findings and experiences. The journal serves as a window into the past, present, and future, emphasizing the repercussions of unrestrained tyranny in the disguise of kindness, as well as the indestructible tenacity of the human will. The story mixes suspense, mystery, and philosophical musings, engrossing readers until the very last page. It is an immersing and thought-provoking story that blends science fiction, our current society, dystopia, and philosophical examination. It challenges readers to consider the nature of the human mind, men and women in natural balance, the value of accountability, the value of freedom, and the possibility of the implications of a society that breaks down due to lack of balance.

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New book release: ‘The Influencer’ by Christopher M. Jones

‘The Influencer’ is the new suspense thriller by Christopher M. Jones. Photo: Christopher M. Jones, used with permission.

I remember the pre-internet days, but nowadays, having an online presence has become the norm. Have you ever wondered what it would be like to suddenly have no digital presence; and worse of all, to have no one remember you? If you like suspense thrillers with a techno twist as much as I do, today’s new book release might just be your next big read. It imagines a world where a mysterious organization controls and influences every aspect of society. Sounds interesting, doesn’t it? I am talking about Dr. Christopher M. Jones’ new novel “The Influencer,” that promises to captivate readers with its touching exploration of a hyper-connected world. Order your copy today.

With over fifteen years of experience in multiple aspects of the tech industry, Dr. Christopher M. Jones combines his professional insights with a passion for storytelling. His comprehensive understanding of technology, strategic planning, and the dynamics of a tech-centric society infuses depth and realism into his literary creations. A seasoned professional with a rich background in technology and computer science management, he unveils his latest work, “The Influencer.” This sci-fi thriller explores the fragile line between online fame and anonymity, blending themes of digital dystopia, existential crises, and high-stakes pursuit. For a deeper insight into “The Influencer” and exclusive updates, visit the official book website. 

Author Christopher M. Jones. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

“The Influencer” –  At the heart of the tale is Ira Bode, a globally celebrated social media star. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she awakens to a reality where her entire digital footprint has vanished, propelling her into a life on the run from ‘The Council.’ This mysterious organization, with its tight grip over media, commerce, and politics, dispatches its ominous enforcers—the Hat Men—to capture Ira. Amidst this chaos, she finds an ally in Owen, the only person who remembers her existence.

“The Influencer” is not just a work of fiction; it is a mirror reflecting our contemporary society, where online validation often overshadows real-life connections. It challenges readers to ponder upon the intricacies of our digital identities and the potential consequences of a life deeply entwined with the online realm. Dr. Jones has meticulously weaved themes that resonate with today’s digital age, touching on topics of online identity, tech-driven control, and the societal implications of a digital-first existence. His background in technology and education provides depth to the narrative, making it as thought-provoking as it is engaging. (Dr. Christopher M. Jones, 2023)

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Courtesy photo, used with permission.

New book release: ‘The Amber Menhir’ by Jonathan N. Pruitt

‘The Amber Menhir’ will be released October, 4, 2023. Photo: Amazon

Jonathan N. Pruitt is a lifelong educator, a former scientific researcher, and a provocative fantasy author. Rising from humble beginnings in a rural, economically disadvantaged county in Florida, he skyrocketed to academic success, earning a PhD at the youthful age of 24. Pruitt’s journey took him from the concert halls as a child prodigy pianist to the globally recognized halls of esteemed universities including the University of Pittsburgh, Princeton University, and the University of California, Santa Barbara. His life experiences—from living in diverse corners of the world like South Africa, Namibia, Australia, and Canada, to navigating the wild landscape of his career—richly inform his narratives. Pruitt’s storytelling defies reality yet resonates with emotional truth. He makes readers question the differences between good and evil and the murky area between the two. With his debut novel “The Amber Menhir,” Pruitt delivers biting humor, deep human insights, and a unique scientist’s perspective. Readers visit a modern-day, grimdark fairy tale where reality bends and twists. Jonathan N. Pruitt’s metamorphosis from a prodigious scientific mind into a fantasy author is a testament to reinvention. Avoiding the usual expectations of fantasy by way of satire, humor, and a race of nefarious evil cats, it is the first in Jonathan Pruitt’s The Shadows of the Monolith series and arrives this October from Spinner Loom Press. It is available now for pre-order on Amazon. (Black Château, 2023)

“The Amber Menhir” – With each new dawn, the celestial body known only as ‘Calamity’ draws closer – and with it the end of the world. Humanity’s only hope from oblivion rests in the menhirs, towering bastions of scholarship and imagination which cast long shadows across the lands. The scholars within the menhirs devote themselves selflessly to the discovery of new magic that will help avert the impending apocalypse … or so the masses have been made to understand.

In a society divided between those with occult potential and lay citizens, Tara Langcraw is recruited into the Amber Menhir with great interest. The long-awaited heiress of a bloodline bearing the rarest of the six magical disciplines, time manipulation, she is expected to flourish within this noble citadel of learning, as are her friends and fellow recruits, Roland Ward and Peony Bianchi. They soon find, however, that those who fail to meet expectations, or who dare to challenge the prevailing order, put more than their marks on the line. For the menhir squirms with rivalries, and those who stand against the status quo may not stand for very long.

Having earned the title of the world’s most infamous spider biologist, Pruitt has penned a grimdark fantasy lampooning the academic and scientific communities, while also offering an immersive, diverse, and fast-paced story. What exactly is a Menhir? “Found across the globe, Menhirs are mysterious, ancient, imposing monoliths that prove evidence of a civilization’s existence. They’re often the subject of superstition, just like the magical institutions that make up this world. Whether they stand as pinnacles of grandeur and discovery, or blemishes of political pestilence will be up to the reader,” explains Pruitt.

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New documentary release: Aliens Uncovered: The Golden Record

The sci-fi documentary Aliens Uncovered: The Golden Record will premiere this July 4. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

In the late 70s, the US government sent a message to our distant neighbors. Twenty years later, the response we received sparked the biggest UFO sighting in history. Now, the Pentagon confirms Alien mothership could be sending probes to Earth. Could this be the same mother ship that showed up during an event that was nine times stronger than the Carrington event? The answer to that question could be hidden deep in Arizona’s High Desert. Clive Christopher’s third film in the ALIENS UNCOVERED series, Aliens Uncovered: The Golden Record is a compelling watch, and it is coming to digital July 4 from Breaking Glass Pictures. (October Coast, 2023)

“I am thrilled to bring ‘Aliens Uncovered: The Golden Record’ to audiences worldwide. This thought-provoking and captivating film takes viewers on a journey into the mysteries of the universe, exploring the possibilities of extraterrestrial life and our profound connection to the cosmos. With its intriguing storyline and compelling revelations, the film challenges us to question our place in the universe and sparks a sense of wonder and curiosity. We are proud to be a part of this project that pushes the boundaries of exploration and discovery. Get ready to embark on an extraordinary adventure as ‘Aliens Uncovered: The Golden Record’ unveils secrets that will leave audiences awe-inspired and craving further exploration.” – CEO Rich Wolff of Breaking Glass Pictures.

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